Our 10yr old Kenmore Elite dryer just gave out - it's supposedly the thermalfuse and would cost $125+ to fix (light is on inside but push start button doesn't work.) Anyway, my washer works, but after 10yrs, we want to just invest the repair cost into a new set.

Top loader vs. Front loader:

Here's the wish list:

- REAL super hot water coming into the machine to do hot wash (not auto temp)or the capability to raise the water to a hot temperature
- stainless steel drum in washer
- tall agitator (my reading is that traditional agitator cleans better than no agitator unless you think otherwise
-double rinse cycles
(Basically everything I have now, but I'd like stainless so no rust)

-Electric dryer absolutely needs to side vent (not back vent)
- Measurement from floor to bottom of cabinets which are on top of the washer is 53"

Since the dryer just died today, my research is showing that either I get a top loader, or a front loader with no pedestal or a 10" pedestal which is supposedly hard to find on some front models.

Can someone please help me with a suggestion of some models which would allow my wish list to be fulfilled?

Lots of laundry to do... and we so appreciate your expertise. Thank you.

We are not Consumers Reports. You might check with them.

Always buy a top loading washer. The dryer can be fixed easily with a $30 or cheaper fuse. They are easy to fix. I would buy a Whirlpool washer and dryer. Parts are cheap and they last forever.

The Thermals are an easy and cheap fix, Search "Replacing Dryer Thermals" on Youtube, It may hold until you find the right Dryer, Newer Stuff is made cheaply.

I just replaced my Kenmore w/d of 13 years with a top loading set. I read a lot about front loaders with moldy seals. My final decision came about with one issue:are you the type like me that keeps finding one more thing to throw in the wash? If so, get a top loader.

Remember, every problem you described can be fixed for nothing or cheap. You can knock out the other vent hole in the side of the dryer. Most dryers have a knock-out that is removed by hitting it with a hammer. Then you need to tear it down and clean it and find the fuse. It's all too easy and it would be wasteful to buy a new one. You are supposed to tear down a dryer at least once a year anyway, clean it, grease the bearings with white lithium grease, and replace the belt ($5.00). Anyone can do it, just make sure to remove all air moving ducts and wash them out. Mark wires you will have to unplug. I know if my sister can do it anyone can. Stratmando is right: The new dryers are made cheaply and are more trouble, at times, especially the digital ones. Buy the old fashioned ones with dial timers and regular analog switches, washing machines the same way for top loaders.